Our Mission, Vision, and Purpose

MISSION: "To support educational, scientific, civic, and cultural programs and activities relating to the advancement of arboriculture, horticulture and related fields by providing support for the Cox Arboretum as a free arboretum/museum for the benefit of the general public"

Since its inception in 1963, The James M. Cox, Jr. Arboretum Foundation has strived to provide an “living museum” for the Dayton community where people of all ages can come to learn about and engage with nature. The Foundation provides financial support to Cox Arboretum MetroPark in a unique public-private partnership with Five Rivers MetroParks.

VISION: Through development and implementation of the Master Plan, ensure that all visitors, members, volunteers and staff of Cox Arboretum will Escape, Discover and Grow in an inspiring outdoor refuge that connects them to nature and the practice of sustainable horticulture.

PURPOSE: To receive and maintain a fund or funds and apply the whole or, from time to time, any part of the principal or income, exclusively to educational or scientific purposes and activities with particular emphasis on the establishment and maintenance of a free museum for the benefit of the general public.